The School and Mass Education Department in Odisha has issued instructions to ensure a safe environment for women employees and students in schools. Departmental Secretary Shalini Pandit has directed all District Education Officers and District Project Coordinators to comply with the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Remedies) Act, 2013.
Key Instructions:
- Internal Complaints Committee (ICC): Review and reconstitute ICCs in all institutions to handle complaints of sexual harassment.
- Barnali Curriculum: Strictly follow the Barnali (Gender Equality Programme) curriculum in primary and secondary schools to promote positive gender attitudes and eliminate gender-based violence.
- Helpline Numbers: Display helpline numbers prominently in schools and residential hostels, including:
- Women Helpline: 181
- Child Helpline: 1098
- Police Helpline: 112
- School Student Helpline: 18003456722
These measures aim to create a safe and secure environment for women employees and students, promoting their physical, mental, and socio-emotional well-being. The Odisha government has been taking steps to ensure school safety, including directing schools near highways to comply with safety norms.